J.K. Rowling and Elon Musk Denounce Graham Linehan’s Arrest

Author J.K. Rowling and tech entrepreneur Elon Musk have publicly condemned the arrest of comedian Graham Linehan, who was detained at Heathrow Airport this week following social media posts regarding the trans community. Linehan, known for creating popular television series such as Father Ted and The IT Crowd, was taken into custody on October 2, 2023, after arriving from Arizona. The Metropolitan Police stated that he was arrested on suspicion of inciting violence related to messages posted on the platform X in April.

The arrest involved five armed officers and occurred in the afternoon. Following the incident, Linehan claimed he was treated “like a terrorist” during the questioning, which focused on three specific posts. One of these posts encouraged individuals to “make a scene, call the cops and if all else fails, punch him” if a trans-identifying male entered a female-only space. After police expressed concerns for his health, Linehan was taken to a hospital. He was later released on bail with restrictions on his use of X.

In response, Musk criticized the British authorities, labeling the country a “police state.” Rowling echoed these sentiments, questioning, “What the f*** has the UK become? This is totalitarianism. Utterly deplorable.” Other prominent figures also voiced their disapproval. Journalist Piers Morgan remarked that Britain was “turning into North Korea” regarding free speech, while Conservative MP Robert Jenrick described the arrest as “a complete waste of police time.”

The Free Speech Union announced it would provide funding for Linehan’s legal defense, asserting that the police response was disproportionate. Linehan is expected to return for further questioning in October 2023. Additionally, he is scheduled to appear in court on October 5, 2023, at Westminster Magistrates’ Court regarding unrelated charges of harassment and property damage stemming from an alleged confrontation with activist Sophia Brooks last year, charges he denies.

Authorities emphasized that while police officers at airports routinely carry firearms, no weapons were drawn during the arrest of Linehan. This incident has raised questions about the balance between free speech and public safety in the UK, igniting a broader discussion on the implications of social media conduct.